Northampton Saints fans create a synchronized light show

A rugby team has called on fans to use their mobile phones to create a synchronized light show to welcome players onto the pitch.

Northampton Saints said Friday’s game was the first time such a performance had been seen in a rugby union game.

A special app links the phone’s lights and screens to music.

The club said it “can’t wait to see the stadium lit up like never before” by our own fans.

The defending champions have prepared to welcome Harlequins for their first Premiership home game of the season on Friday evening.

Before kick-off at 7:45pm BST, there will be an announcement at Franklin’s Gardens encouraging fans to open the Stadium FX app and point their phones at the pitch.

A system developed by American company CUE Audio then synchronizes each phone’s lights and camera with music.

The club said the app does not rely on access to the internet, mobile networks or Bluetooth, so there would be no problem with hundreds of people connecting at the same time.

The app also offers the option to record the light show.

CUE Audio has used similar technology for displays at American sporting events such as the F1 Grand Prix.

The club’s Jack Miller said: “We’re incredibly excited to be offering our fans the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of Saints’ run on the pitch on Friday evening.”

“We are sure spectators will love the experience and we encourage all game-goers on Friday to get involved.

“We can’t wait to see Cinch Stadium lit up by our own fans like never before.”